At Buford High School, our basketball program is driven by a dedicated and talented coaching staff committed to fostering excellence on and off the court. Each coach brings a wealth of experience, a passion for the game, and a deep understanding of what it takes to build champions. Together, they shape not only skilled athletes but also strong leaders and outstanding individuals who uphold the values of the Buford Wolves.
Head Coach Girls
Basketball has always been a significant part of my life. From high school to college, the game taught me invaluable lessons and shaped who I am today. It has been there through every high and low, and I continue to have a passion for it. Coaching allows me to pass on those lessons and impact young athletes both on and off the court.
I began my coaching career at Brookwood School in Thomasville, GA, where I coached both boys' and girls' programs for three years. Following that, I led the girls’ program at Dade County High School for 13 years before joining Buford in 2005. This year marks my 20th year coaching the Buford girls’ program, making it my 36th season overall as a head coach.
I chose Buford because of its unique blend of academics and athletics. I wanted my children to grow up in an environment that valued excellence in all aspects of life. The strong community support and close-knit culture here make it a special place for my family, and now two of my children are teaching in Buford as well.
For me, the most important aspect of coaching is preparing young athletes for life. High school sports are about more than just the game; they’re about building relationships, creating memories, and learning life skills that last far beyond the court. If I can help my players understand this, I will have achieved something greater than just winning games.
Family: Married to Cherie Langston; children: Devin (deceased) Christian, Coby, and Danielle; grandchildren: Josie, Beau, Jack, GiGi, Billy, and Jamie.
Quick Facts:
Coaching Experience:
Achievements:
Head Coach Boys
When basketball is played the right way, it’s “The Beautiful Game”. Basketball is a team sport that allows for individual creativity, blending high-paced transitions and constant shifts between defense and offense that make it incredibly entertaining. What I love most in my role as a coach is the journey of seeing a group of individuals slowly mature into a team. Each season, we start as a group of people, and if we’re doing it right, we become a family by the year’s end.
Watching young men grow and improve throughout their journey is immensely rewarding. The unique aspect of Buford is that I get to see many players begin in our Youth Camp and eventually become key contributors to our Varsity Program. It’s amazing to witness that evolution and be part of their story.
I started my basketball journey in Vidalia, GA, playing for four years at Piedmont University, where I also served as a graduate assistant. My coaching career spans 17 years, with the last 11 spent at Buford. I earned my Master’s degree from Piedmont University and my Specialist degree from the University of West Georgia.
I feel very fortunate to have been brought on to the Buford program by legendary coach Eddie Martin. Since then, Buford has become home for me and my family. I’m married to Caroline Parker, a teacher at Buford High School and the Director of Cheer, and together we have twin daughters, Amelia Grace and Lainey Reese, who are enrolled in the Child Care Center at Buford.
In our program, we talk a lot about how everyone’s role may be different, but their value is the same. High school sports hold significant value in playing for your school and community. It’s important for our players to be themselves, use their talents, and commit to the team concept. Ultimately, basketball is more than just a game; it’s a tool for teaching life lessons—accountability, teamwork, discipline, and pride. These skills are what we aim to cultivate in every player.
Coaching Experience:
2015 – Present: Buford High School
2013 – 2015: North Gwinnett High School
2011 – 2013: Tattnall Square Academy
2009 – 2011: Edmund Burke Academy
2008 – 2009: Piedmont College
Coach JV Boys
Basketball has always been a simple yet powerful game for me. All it takes to get better is a ball and the desire to make small, daily improvements. I started playing when I was around 6 or 7 at a local rec center called the Neighborhood House. I wasn’t very good at first, but I loved playing. Over time, I began to train more seriously and played at Cambridge High School. My passion for the game led me to play at Emmanuel College, where I was part of several successful seasons, including multiple 20-win years and conference championships.
During my time at Emmanuel, I earned my bachelor’s degree in History Education. My first two years of teaching were at Apalachee High School, where I taught U.S. History, worked in the SPED department, and served as the Head JV Coach and Varsity Assistant. I joined the Buford Basketball program in 2022, continuing my role as the Head JV Coach and Assistant on Varsity.
I chose Buford because of its strong community and the high level of coaches and teachers here. I wanted to surround myself with individuals who push for excellence in everything they do. Coaching allows me to help kids reach their goals, and there’s nothing quite like the moment when the light bulb turns on, and a player understands a new aspect of the game.
Patience and adaptability are crucial in coaching. Each player learns and thinks differently, so my goal is to change my approach to bring out the best in each athlete. Outside of basketball, I’m married to Kaitlyn McClung, and we have two wonderful dogs—an Australian Shepherd and a rescue.
I’m excited for the journey ahead with the Buford Wolves and look forward to another season of growth and success!
Coaching Experience:
2022 – Present: Buford High School
2020 – 2022: Apalachee High School
Assistant Coach Boys, Coach Freshman Boys
I love the game of basketball for its unique sounds—the bounce of the ball in an empty gym, the swish of the net, the squeak of sneakers, and the cheers of a packed crowd. There’s a magic to the game that draws people together, and I’m grateful to be part of that energy as a coach. What I love most about coaching is the opportunity to be a small part of student-athletes' sports journeys. I get to push our players beyond what they thought possible and witness the joy on their faces when they achieve something remarkable together. It’s about teaching them more than just basketball; it’s about life.
I’m fortunate to have a wonderful family that supports my passion. My wife, Sarah, understands the life of a coach and supports me every step of the way. We have two boys, Grayson and Theo. Grayson, a 4th grader at Buford Senior Academy, is my bonus son who changed my life and gave me purpose. He loves soccer and plays for Concorde Fire Soccer Club in Atlanta. I also get to coach him in basketball during the winter. Theo is the life of the party; he’s not your typical four-year-old. He’s been riding a bike since he was three and loves to keep up with his big brother. We’re blessed to have our parents living in Buford as well. Sarah’s parents, Jo and Ross, are originally from Indiana, while my parents and I immigrated from Cochabamba, Bolivia. I always say, "Who would have thought a kid born in Bolivia and raised in California would move to Atlanta, Georgia, and marry a girl from Zionsville, Indiana?"
My love for basketball started early. I played the game with my mom in our small California home using a Nerf ball and hoop. There was no room to bounce the ball, but those humble beginnings sparked my passion. That drive pushed me to play in college, and eventually, I found my way to coaching. I started coaching at Dos Pueblos High School in California, later joining the legendary Eddie Martin’s staff at Greater Atlanta Christian School. When Coach Martin came to Buford, I followed, and it has been a blessing to be part of this community.
I didn’t choose Buford; I was fortunate to be welcomed here. Buford is more than a school district—it’s a family. I also teach 1st grade at Buford Academy, where I am supported by an incredible administration. My goal is to show my students and athletes that I care. I hope that when I greet them in the hallway or on the court, they know that Mr. Villarroel is in their corner.
For me, coaching is about teaching the fundamentals. At every level, whether coaching my son’s rookie baseball team or Buford’s varsity players, the approach is the same: Play the game the right way. Basketball is filled with life lessons, and the most important lesson I try to instill is, "Next play." Whether in school, life, or sports, it’s always about the next play.
Coaching Experience:
2015 – Present: Buford High School
2013 – 2015: Greater Atlanta Christian School
2006 – 2013: Dos Pueblos High School (CA)
Assistant Coach Boys
Basketball has always been a passion of mine. I love the game for its fast pace and the many skills it demands from each player. Coaching allows me to see firsthand how players grow, develop discipline, and achieve their goals both on and off the court. It’s a journey I feel privileged to be a part of.
I’ve had the opportunity to coach at several great programs over the years. I started my coaching career at Jefferson from 2014 to 2018, moved to Flowery Branch for the 2018-2019 season, and then spent two years at Cherokee Bluff before joining Buford in 2021. Being part of the Buford Basketball family has been especially meaningful to me because it allows me to stay close to my own family while working with a community that shares my passion for the sport.
Family is everything to me. My wife, Julia, and I have four incredible children. Our twin sons, Chandler and Chase, are both graduates of Georgia Southern University. Our daughter, Ava Grace, is pursuing her studies as a freshman at Ohio State University, and our youngest, Brayden, is a sophomore right here at Buford High School.
For me, the most important aspect of coaching youth is helping them develop the discipline they need to work toward their goals. I believe that basketball is more than just a game—it’s a way to instill values, build character, and teach life lessons that extend far beyond the court. I am honored to be part of a program that values these principles and to contribute to shaping the next generation of student-athletes.
I am excited to continue this journey with the Buford Wolves. Let's make this season one to remember!
Coaching Experience:
2013 – 2017: Jefferson High School
2018 – 2019: Flowery Branch High School
2020 – 2022: Cherokee Bluff High School
2022 – Present: Buford High School
Assistant Coach Boys
I love the challenge of putting together the pieces to create a cohesive and successful team. Watching the team grow throughout the season is one of the most rewarding parts of coaching. Beyond the court, I value the relationships I build with players and colleagues. Game planning and preparation for each game is a thrilling aspect of what I do—it’s where strategy meets passion.
My basketball journey began at Brookwood High School, where I grew up as the son of a coach. Basketball was always part of my life, and I spent countless hours in the gym learning the game. My coaching career spans over 19 years, including 5 years at Norcross, 7 years at GAC, 6 years at Buford, 1 year at Seckinger, and now my second season back with the Buford program.
The chance to coach in Buford’s strong community, work alongside other great coaches, and team up with Coach Parker was an incredible opportunity I couldn’t pass up. Each year of high school basketball comes with unique challenges, but keeping it fun and fostering teamwork towards a common goal is always at the heart of what I do.
Outside of basketball, my family is my world. I’ve been married to Lindsay for 13 years, and we have three amazing kids: Charlie (9), a 3rd grader at Buford Senior Academy; Jack Henry (6), a 1st grader at Buford Academy; and Millie (2).
Coaching Experience:
2004-2008: Norcross (144-12)
2008-2015: GACS (193-29)
2015-2021: Buford (120-28)
2022-2023: Seckinger (18-11)
2023 – Present: Buford
Assistant Coach Boys
Basketball has been a huge part of my life since I started playing at the age of 8 in the GBBA. While I love all aspects of the game, what I truly value the most are the relationships it builds. It's incredible to come together to compete for something bigger than ourselves, but the bonds and memories created along the way are what I treasure the most.
This year marks my first season coaching at Buford High School, but it’s my 8th year coaching high school basketball. I chose to transition to Buford for the career and coaching opportunities, and because this community holds a special place in my heart—I grew up here. It feels great to give back to the community that helped shape who I am today.
Currently, I’m pursuing my bachelor’s degree in special education, a path that aligns with my passion for working with young people. To me, the most important aspect of coaching youth is building relationships. Teaching the game is important, but it’s the relationships that last forever, and that’s what I focus on every day.
I’m excited to be a part of the Buford Wolves family and look forward to a season full of growth, challenges, and unforgettable memories.
Assistant Coach Girls
Basketball is one of the ultimate team games. Every position requires both offensive and defensive skills, and success depends on every player understanding their role and being willing and able to fulfill it. I also love that it’s a fast-paced game where players must make quick decisions and process everything at high speed.
I love being part of a team and all that is involved in that. The hours are long, and there are always frustrations at times, but the positives that come out of it make it all worth the time and sacrifice. I’ve seen many team members remain close friends long after their playing days are over, which is one of the most rewarding aspects of coaching.
My wife, Sandra, coached our feeder program and middle school teams for ten years. Together, we have three daughters: Taylor, Tory, and Tatum. All three played in our program from the time they were young girls through high school. Between them, they were able to be a part of 6 State Championships and 1 State Runner-up. Taylor graduated from the University of West Georgia, Tory recently finished her college basketball career and graduated from Michigan State University, and Tatum is currently a junior at the University of Georgia.
I started playing basketball in elementary school, continued through high school, and played four years at Berry College. I have been coaching basketball at some level for 36 years. I was a head high school coach for 17 years, a college assistant for 6 years, and a college head coach for 4 years. My coaching experience was on the boys' side until I came to Buford, and this is my 18th year coaching girls here.
I chose to work at Buford because of its reputation as a system of excellence. I wanted to work in a place like this and give my children the best opportunities. For me, that was Buford City Schools. It was the best decision I ever made.
When I came here, Coach Dexter Wood emphasized the importance of connection. You have to be competent and knowledgeable, but even if you have those qualities, kids still won’t buy in unless you connect with them. The age-old saying that they don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care is still true today. Connection supersedes everything else.
Coaching Experience:
Achievements:
Assistant Coach Girls
Basketball is a great sport because it requires players to excel on both sides of the court. You can specialize in offense or defense, but to truly be a complete player, you must be able to do it all.
What I love most about what I do is working with teenagers. They always keep things fun and interesting; there’s never a dull moment in coaching or teaching. I started playing basketball in the 5th grade, and it quickly became my favorite sport. I had an incredible high school experience with amazing coaches who shaped my love for the game. Coming from a family of teachers and coaches, I realized I had a natural gift for teaching while working with the youth at my church. I decided to combine my two passions—science and teaching—into a career. Now, 24 years later, I can say there's never a dull moment in the classroom or on the court.
My journey to Buford was unexpected. In the summer of 2005, I was preparing to pursue full-time missions work and had resigned from my teaching position at Model High School. However, when my father passed away unexpectedly in July of that year, my path changed. Shortly after, Milt Travis told me about a science position at Buford and mentioned that Coach Gene Durden might be interested in taking me on as an assistant. I interviewed, was offered the job, and now, 19 years later, I’m still here and loving every moment.
For me, coaching is about empowerment, especially for young women. Sports offer a training ground for life where you can work hard, become a leader or a great follower, and learn self-discipline and control. Sports are something that you can throw your whole self into, and I am honored to help shape the lives of our athletes.
Family: My family resides in Rome, GA, where I grew up. I’m an aunt to two amazing nephews. My mom and sister are always up-to-date with what's happening with the Lady Wolves and support my coaching career, often making the drive to Buford to catch a game. I’m also blessed with an incredible extended family that has always been supportive of my teaching and coaching journey.
Education: I earned my undergraduate degree from Shorter University in 2001, a Master’s in Christian Studies from Luther Rice University in 2009, and I’m currently completing my EDS from Augusta University this December.
Coaching Experience:
Achievements:
Assistant Coach Girls
Basketball is in my blood. My dad has been a coach my entire life, so I was always surrounded by the game. It wasn’t until middle school that I truly developed a love for playing. Basketball has helped forge many of the memories and relationships I cherish today. It taught me grit, work ethic, time management, competitiveness, and the value of teamwork. Most importantly, it showed me that with hard work, you can achieve any goal you set for yourself.
I started playing basketball at the age of 5 in the Dade County Rec League in Trenton, Georgia. When I moved to Buford at age 10, I continued playing and was fortunate to play for Buford High School from 2009 to 2013 under Coaches Milt Travis and Allen Whitehart. After high school, I played for the University of North Georgia during the 2013-2014 season. In 2014, I began my coaching career as an assistant coach for Buford, and I’m now entering my 11th year with our girls' basketball program.
Coaching and teaching allow me to share the values and qualities that my own coaches and teammates instilled in me. I want to help my students and players by showing them the life lessons basketball can teach and the doors it can open. I use basketball as a vehicle to help mold them into better young people.
I’ve always wanted to coach and teach at Buford because of the tradition and excellence our school system upholds. Having been a student here, I know firsthand how well Buford prepared me for college and life beyond. Working at Buford is a blessing I don't take for granted. I grew up watching my dad's programs, and now being able to contribute to this program from a different perspective is an incredible experience.
Outside of basketball, I am married to Hannah, and we have three wonderful children: Josie (5), Jack (4), and Jamie (1). I am grateful to be a part of this community and look forward to another fantastic season with the Buford Wolves.
Coaching Experience:
Assistant Coach Girls
Basketball has been a lifelong passion of mine. I’ve loved the game since I was young, drawn to the teamwork, skill variety, and the many ways a player can shine. Basketball has taught me about work ethic, resilience, and has led me to incredible friendships and experiences across the world."
After starting her coaching journey as a grad assistant at Barry University, Coach Bro moved on to coach at the Air Force Academy, then returned to Barry as a recruiting coordinator. She later transitioned to high school teaching and coaching, first at Centennial High School in Boise, Idaho, before coming to Buford. Since joining Buford, Coach Bro has earned her master’s and specialist degrees and is now working toward her Doctorate. Her commitment to learning and growing as a coach is fueled by the opportunity to work with Gene Durden, whose practice style left a lasting impact on her.
Originally from Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, Coach Bro’s family is still on the West Coast, with loved ones in Idaho, Washington, and Arizona.
For Coach Bro, the heart of coaching is in building relationships. "I believe in connecting with players on a personal level. Understanding their motivations is key, and a simple conversation, a smile, and a genuine connection make a difference. Being a teacher and coach means impacting youth every single day, which is the most rewarding part of my work."
Coach Bro is thrilled to continue her journey with Buford, fostering both athletic and personal growth in her players. Let’s make this season unforgettable! Go Wolves!
Coaching Experience:
Assistant Coach Girls
What I love most about coaching is teaching the game to kids and helping them develop both on and off the court. There’s a thrill in coming up with strategies and plays that lead to success, and I get excited when our players excel and achieve their goals. Being part of the Buford Basketball program feels like being part of a family, and it's an incredible experience to watch young athletes grow.
My journey with basketball began in high school and continued into college. Now in my second year of coaching, I find great inspiration in the way Coach Durden leads his team and how he brings out the best in his players. I strive to teach the game while also imparting important life lessons. The discipline, work ethic, and perseverance that basketball requires have shaped me into who I am today, and I want to pass those lessons on to my players.
Outside of basketball, I have a wonderful family that takes up the rest of my time. My wife Morgan, and three children: Makenzi (12), Sawyer (9), and Graham (8). I’m grateful to share my love of the game with them as well.
Coaching Experience:
Coaching Staff Girls
What I love about girls' basketball is the upbeat tempo of the game! The mental aspect, the competitiveness, and the toughness that basketball instills are invaluable. It’s a sport that challenges you to overcome obstacles and teaches you how to work together as a team. Watching the girls succeed and grow through those challenges brings me joy.
What I love about my job is being able to participate in a small chapter of each girl's life—it’s incredibly rewarding. Coaching alongside the Lady Wolves staff provides intangible rewards that are more fulfilling than most people can imagine. The Buford community is like no other; the support and family connections are meaningful and bring many blessings to my family and me.
I began playing basketball in 3rd grade with boys because there were no opportunities for girls at the time. I didn’t score a single basket the entire year, but the toughness and grit I developed during that time set my career in motion. I was competitive and never let an opportunity pass me by to learn or grow in the sport. I played at Duluth High School and continued my basketball journey at the collegiate level, playing for Clayton College and State University. Since I began teaching in 2004, I’ve been coaching at the middle school level, continuing my passion for the game.
My kids had attended Buford for a few years, and as a parent, I knew Buford had a strong reputation for both academic and athletic excellence, making it an ideal place for me as an educator who wanted to be part of a community that supports students and families. Buford City Schools is known for its tight-knit community and tradition of success in sports, which was a huge draw for me to coach under Coach Durden's staff.
The most important aspect of coaching is developing and mentoring young women, much like the coaches who influenced me. It’s about preparing them not just for high school sports but for life beyond the game, helping them grow into strong, confident young women. My goal is to guide them in building the skills, discipline, and character they’ll need to succeed both on and off the court.
Assistant Coach Girls
Basketball is so much more than just a sport to me. The life skills that can be built by being part of a basketball team—leadership, teamwork, camaraderie, and determination—are irreplaceable. As a coach, I love the impact I get to have on my girls’ lives. It goes far beyond teaching them how to play the game; I get to watch them grow into better leaders, students, and friends.
One of my favorite moments as a coach is when former players come back, give me the biggest hugs, and call out, "Hey Coach James!" or "Hey J-Dawg!" It reminds me of the lasting relationships we build together through this sport.
I grew up in Buford, what some might call "O.B." or "Old Buford." My family has been here since the early 1990s, and I graduated from Buford High School in 2002. After earning my Bachelor's in Education from what is now the University of North Georgia, I began my teaching and coaching career in Rockdale County, followed by some time in Gwinnett County. I always dreamed of returning to Buford to give back to the community that shaped me. In 2020, I finally had the opportunity to join Buford Middle School as a teacher, and a year later, I began coaching here.
Coaching today’s youth is different than it was 20 years ago. School-aged kids have changed, and as coaches, we need to meet our athletes where they are. Building relationships and gaining player buy-in are key. They need to know how much you care and believe in what you’re trying to achieve as a team. For me, building these connections is the most important aspect of coaching.
Outside of basketball, I’m married to my wonderful and supportive husband, Stacy. We have two boys, Andrew (12), who attends Buford Middle School, and William (5), our future Buford Wolf who is currently in Pre-K.
Assistant Coach
What I love most about basketball is the family dynamic of a team and the thrill of competition. There’s nothing quite like spending time with others who share the same passion for the game that I love. For me, coaching is about watching young ladies grow within the sport and using basketball to help them develop as individuals both on and off the court.
My basketball journey started early in life, inspired by my older brothers. I grew up playing basketball in Gwinnett County, which led me to play at Appalachian State, where I graduated. After college, I had the opportunity to serve as a graduate assistant under Coach Andy Landers at the University of Georgia. This experience sparked my desire to go into full-time coaching. My coaching career began at East Carolina University (2008-2010) with Sharon Baldwin, followed by Georgia State (2010-2014), then Penn State with Coquese Washington (2014-2018), and Western Kentucky (2018-2021). Most recently, I was at Mercer University (2023-2024) before joining the Buford Basketball family.
I’ve known Coach Gene Durden since my time at UGA, and I’ve had the pleasure of meeting many of the young ladies who have played for him. They all speak highly of him and have gained so much from their experiences. I’m excited to learn from such a wonderful basketball family and contribute to the program’s ongoing success.
I am fortunate to have a loving and supportive family. I’m married to Marcus Brown, and we have three wonderful children: Austin (9), Abigail (3), and Ava (8 months). Our family loves being part of a community that values growth, both in sports and in life.
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